Kate Brown

"I think everyone who thinks they want to be a stepparent ought to really talk to people who've actually been there. It can be incredibly painful, and it can be filled with amazing joy. It taught me a lot I have to say. ... You're not a parent but sort of functioning in a parent role. You can't be a friend but you can be a confidant, maybe. So, how do you find that mix? It was a challenge. We’ve done OK. The kids are really doing well and I'm very proud of them."

"I think the challenge with being bi or pan is that the dominant culture sees this as a choice, and it’s hard to explain to people that this is not a choice. This is who I am and I know that. And so I've had conversations with family members; I've had conversations with supporters that this is who I am and my marital status doesn't change that."

"Before COVID-19 shuttered the state Capitol, she was known for cruising the hallways, making friendly conversation with lobbyists, Republicans and reporters as she went. She would compliment someone’s new glasses. She would take the time to write a handwritten note of congratulations for the birth of a baby."

"She’s affable; a people person who sometimes spiced up her talk of legislative agenda with quirky colloquialisms — like warning people to wear their metal underpants when times get tough and promising her constituents she’ll GSD – Brown-speak for “get stuff done."

"Brown’s supporters believe history will judge her kindly; that she’ll be remembered for offering a steady hand during a time of crisis."

"Oregon Gov. Kate Brown is likable."

"Kate Brown will not be judged objectively for a while. A long while."